Adductors

The adductors originate from the pubis and the ischium and insert along the femur. The adductor magnus is the most voluminous of the group and has a posterior portion that functions almost like an additional hamstring, contributing to hip extension. This is one of the reasons why the wide-stance squat intensely activates the adductors: they're not just stabilizing, they're producing force to stand back up.

In the gym, the adductors work significantly during wide-stance squats, sumo deadlifts, lateral lunges, and the adductor machine. The sumo squat and sumo deadlift are compound exercises that load them heavily. The adductor machine is the most direct isolation exercise. The Copenhagen plank is also an excellent bodyweight exercise to strengthen the adductors functionally.

The adductors are among the muscles most prone to strains, especially in sports with rapid changes of direction. Strengthening them significantly reduces the risk of groin injury. If you already squat with a medium or wide stance, you're already training the adductors. If you want to work them more directly, add a few sets on the adductor machine or include lateral lunges. Don't neglect them: strong adductors improve hip stability in all leg movements.